Processes of erosion on steep slopes of oahu, Hawaii

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Abstract
The small particles of weathered rock debris derived from the lava flows and associated pyroclastic rocks of the Koolau Range, Oahu, Hawaii, are transported from the mountain slopes of the Range to the main streams below by the processes of soil flow and soil creep. The particles are moved slowly and progressively down through the ravines and across the cliffs of the leeward theater-like valleys, and over talus-veneered bedrock slopes to the valley floors. The occasional mud flows that break out through the forest vegetation contribute to the soil flow Variegated patches of old thick soil, maturely developed soil, youthful thin soil, or bare bedrock on the 70-80 degree slopes at the head of one leeward theater-like valley are considered evidence of avalanching and are important in the recession of these steep slopes. A cycle of recurrent sliding is suggested, similar to that postulated by Freise for steep slopes in the Brazilian tropical forests. This cycle includes the development of soil on the 70-80 degree bedrock slopes with the establishment and growth of plants, eventual soil exhaustion after maximum use, instability induced by rainfall, and avalanching with exposure of the bedrock again.

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